Green, Ohio: A quiet suburban street turned tragic when 9-year-old Samuel Rife, the son of Pastor J. Harlen Rife, lost his life after a vehicle struck him while he was playing near his home. The incident happened on Peachwood Way in Green, Ohio, on April 17.
The Summit County Sheriff’s Office said deputies and Green Fire Department crews were called to the scene around 4:30 p.m. after reports that a child had been hit by a vehicle. Authorities said Samuel had been outside near his home when he suddenly ran into the street.
A 2025 Jeep Wrangler was traveling along Peachwood Way at the time. Officials said the boy moved into the roadway and was struck. The driver, an 81-year-old man, stopped immediately and stayed at the scene as emergency responders arrived.
Samuel was rushed to Akron Children’s Hospital in critical condition. Despite efforts by medical staff, he was pronounced dead at the hospital. The news sent shockwaves through his family, church, and school community.
Samuel was the son of Rev. J. Harlen Rife, pastor of Greensburg United Methodist Church, and his wife, Madeline. Family members and community supporters described a child who was full of energy and deeply connected to his community.
A GoFundMe campaign was later created in his memory. The fundraiser is aimed at supporting Family Support Specialists at Green City Schools. It also serves as a tribute to Samuel’s life and his impact on those around him.
Those who knew him said Samuel cared about others and often volunteered at local food distributions in Akron and Canton. His presence, though short, left a lasting impression on his community, which is now preparing for vigils and remembrance gatherings.
Officials said the crash remains under active investigation by the Summit Metro Crash Response Team. Authorities also noted that neither speed nor impairment appeared to be factors, and no charges had been filed as of the latest update.
